NSIB Launches Investigation into Bonny Ship Collision After Oil Spill

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has begun a full inquiry into the collision between the container vessel MV Maersk Valparaiso and the oil tanker MT Lady Martina at the Bonny Anchorage in Rivers State.

The incident, which occurred on May 20, 2026, has been classified by the bureau as a “Very Serious Marine Casualty.” Following the collision, an oil spill was reported and five crew members aboard the Nigerian‑flagged tanker sustained injuries.

Immediately after receiving notification of the incident, the NSIB activated its marine response protocols and deployed an investigation Go‑Team to Onne and Bonny on May 22, 2026. Investigators boarded both vessels to secure evidence, conduct detailed interviews with the masters and key crew members, and collect operational records and navigational data.

As part of the technical investigation, the Voyage Data Recorder and the Electronic Chart Display and Information System data from MV Maersk Valparaiso have been downloaded for forensic and navigational analysis. The bureau has also formally notified Singapore’s Transport Safety Investigation Bureau in line with the International Maritime Organisation Casualty Investigation Code and Nigeria’s international obligations.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency confirmed that the Singapore‑flagged container vessel and the oil tanker collided around 11:30 a.m. at the Bonny Inner Anchorage. Emergency response teams were immediately deployed to the scene. Following the collision, MT Lady Martina drifted ashore and grounded along the Bonny Channel, while MV Maersk Valparaiso also remained grounded pending damage assessment.

NIMASA has since set up a Situation Monitoring Room, ordered an Environmental Impact Assessment of the affected area, and launched its own probe into the immediate and remote causes of the collision amid concerns over the impact of the oil sheen on the marine environment.

The NSIB has urged the public and all stakeholders to refrain from speculation while the investigation continues. It added that any urgent safety concerns that emerge will lead to immediate safety recommendations. A final investigation report will be released upon completion, in line with national regulations and international obligations.